SSALMON - The Solar Simulations for the Atacama Large Millimeter Observatory Network

TL;DR

SSALMON is a network dedicated to advancing solar observations with ALMA through simulations, aiming to improve observational modes and interpretative capabilities for studying the solar chromosphere and related phenomena.

Contribution

The paper introduces the SSALMON network and discusses its role in coordinating solar ALMA observations and simulations to enhance solar physics research.

Findings

Development of simulation tools for solar ALMA observations

Identification of key science cases for solar studies with ALMA

Promotion of international collaboration in solar radio astronomy

Abstract

The Solar Simulations for the Atacama Large Millimeter Observatory Network (SSALMON) was initiated in 2014 in connection with two ALMA development studies. The Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) is a powerful new tool, which can also observe the Sun at high spatial, temporal, and spectral resolution. The international SSALMONetwork aims at coordinating the further development of solar observing modes for ALMA and at promoting scientific opportunities for solar physics with particular focus on numerical simulations, which can provide important constraints for the observing modes and can aid the interpretation of future observations. The radiation detected by ALMA originates mostly in the solar chromosphere - a complex and dynamic layer between the photosphere and corona, which plays an important role in the transport of energy and matter and the heating of the outer layers of the solar atmosphere. Potential targets include active regions, prominences, quiet Sun regions, flares. Here, we give a brief overview over the network and potential science cases for future solar observations with ALMA.